Page 3 - Florida Sentinel 9-14-18

Feature
Former Employees Comment On USF President’s Leadership
BY IRIS B. HOLTON Sentinel City Editor
Earlier this week, Dr. Judy Genshaft, president of the University of South Florida announced her re- tirement plans. She will step down on July 1, 2019.
The Sentinel spoke with some former employees of the university. They shared their comments about her leadership during her tenure.
Les Miller, Jr., Hills- borough County Commis- sioner, District 3 said, “In her 18 years, she took the univer- sity to new heights that peo- ple didn’t believe was possible; she increased the graduation rate; which was a major task in itself, she tried to and did increase minority enrollment; and she has tried to increase veteran services.
“She has made the uni- versity into a top research fa- cility, not just in the state, but in the county. She has worked with the legislature to get funding from them and that wasn’t easy because many of them are graduates of the University of Florida or Florida State and were try- ing to secure funds for their own institutions. And, she added the Phi Beta Kappa Chapter on campus, which is a major shot in the arm.
“However, I must say that she did not pay attention to the needs of her African American and Hispanic em-
LES MILLER, JR., County Commissioner
ployees, sometimes even al- lowing them to work in a hostile environment. I’m still concerned about this issue and what plans are there to do a better job with minority employees.
“Overall, she took the fa- cility to new heights, earning a degree is now a masterful accomplishment. She trans- formed it from a commuter university to a traditional university. It has come a long way under her leadership.”
A graduate of the Univer- sity of South Florida, Miller was the first African Ameri- can to serve as the first Stu- dent Body President, the first Student Government Presi- dent, and the first Black Na- tional Alumni President.
After graduating, Miller went on to serve in the Leg- islature as State Representa- tive and State Senator.
He said while serving as a
DR. SAMUEL WRIGHT
legislator, he served on the Education Committee and continued fighting for fund- ing for the university.
He also worked at the university for 7 years. “She has left a legacy, but it does have blemishes. In terms of personnel, there is a lot that needed to be done.”
Miller currently serves as a Hillsborough County Commissioner.
Dr. Samuel Wright said, “You know I gave 27.5 years of my best days to USF to make it an inclusive cam- pus that was welcoming to Black students and other
BOB DAVIS
people of color. When Dr. Genshaft was hired 18 years ago, she met with the Black Faculty and Staff Association and never ever gained the respect of the or- ganization.
“It is true that some strides have been made fis- cally and the overall reputa- tion has improved, but we all contributed to making USF what it is today. We want to return to the days at USF, where Black faculty and staff feel empowered and get what they deserve. THAT does not exist today at USF!
“It is time for a CHANGE
and many of us are looking forward to embracing new leadership.”
Robert Davis said, “It was a complete surprise for me to hear of the retirement of President Genshaft. I wish her much happiness in this new stage in her life. I hope that she will use her re- tirement as an opportunity to reflect on her many years of elations and triumphs. She has been a valued leader at USF.
“During my tenure as Di- rector of the Upward Bound Program, I felt very sup- ported. She always inspired me with her vivacious smile and encouragement that where ever I end up in life, I will make a positive differ- ence. She affirmed that my destiny was left up to me.
“Therefore, it is with ac- colades that I wish Dr. Gen- shaft a happy retirement. She can enjoy her retirement feeling satisfied that she is appreciated and has created alegacytobeproudofasa former President of the pres- tigious University of South Florida.”
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY PAGE 3-A